Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen, beckoning family and friends to gather around the breakfast table. Perfectly soft, pillowy rolls filled with a delightful mix of warm spices and brown sugar, these homemade cinnamon rolls are a treat that can turn an ordinary morning into something truly special. With a simple list of ingredients and a little love, you’ll create a batch of these irresistible rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- To the dry mixture, add the softened butter, eggs, and the foamy yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a soft dough begins to form.
- Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish, cut side up.
- Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and warm water in a small bowl.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the top before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
- For an extra decadence, add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
- If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before enjoying again!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is a crucial step to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly fluffy. It activates the gluten in the flour, creating a strong yet tender texture. When rolling your dough, make sure to maintain an even thickness for consistent baking. And don’t rush the rising times; they’re vital for achieving that dreamy, airy quality in your cinnamon rolls!
FAQ
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature and complete the rising process before baking.
- What can I substitute for the milk? You can use any non-dairy milk option, such as almond milk or oat milk, which will work just as beautifully!
- Why is my dough not rising? If your dough isn’t rising, it could be that the yeast is inactive or the environment isn’t warm enough. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm (but not hot) area.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a recipe; they are an invitation to create cherished memories around the breakfast table. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or as a sweet treat for special occasions, each fluffy bite is a delightful reminder of home. So roll up your sleeves, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat your loved ones to these scrumptious cinnamon rolls — they won’t be able to resist!